Affirmations: A Simple Tool for Nurse Health

I’m sure there are ‘technical’ definitions out there on the word affirmation, but being a nurse coach I have created my definition that I teach to my clients and group program attendees. In the interactive exercises we do together I tell folks that affirmations are positive statements, in the present tense, as if they are already happening.

Positive statement (joy); present tense (I am); as if it is already happening (in this moment).

And above I say ‘say’ because I have been taught by several teachers that speaking the affirmation, out loud (of course you can do this when you are going to be alone… in the shower, in the car, on a walk) provides the words with much more impact. Saying them aloud brings that energy up, makes the words more powerful. I think it elevates the level of belief when we hear ourselves say them out loud.

I have been a HUGE believer of affirmations. I even started a rough draft project of a book that I’ve not yet finished. But being completely transparent- I’ve gotten away from saying any on a regular basis.

When I was training to be a Reiki Nurse, I used several affirmations over each chakra of my body. As I did my self-Reiki practice; I would allow the energy to flow and state my affirmations over and over and over in those areas.

So as I start to write this post I realize that while I still do my daily self-Reiki, I’ve gotten out of the routine of adding the affirmations to them.

That being said, that doesn’t mean I don’t use them at all. Here are several ideas when it comes to affirmations:

Create a list of your ‘judgments’ or inner criticisms and turn them into positive, affirming statements;

Write down some of your goals, things you’d like to manifest, and restate those into the present tense affirming them as if they are already happening;

Use your mirror to state your affirmations as you look into your own eyes, becoming more comfortable and loving with yourself;

Jot down some of your favorite affirmations and post them around the house in places where you will see them often.

What would you add to this list? How have you used affirmations in your life? What sorts of results have you had? I’d love to hear about your healthy habits, practices, and routines. We all learn and grow from each other so please share a comment below. Thank you!